ROBOGYN · Robotic Gynecological Brachytherapy

Gynecological cancers are one of the most devastating forms of cancer in the western hemisphere as well as worldwide. The condition is effectively treated with brachytherapy that entails implanting radioactive sources into the cancer to kill it with radiation. The success of the procedure depends on the accurate visualization of the cancer and precise placement of the sources. Faulty source delivery may result in insufficient dose to the cancer and inadvertent radiation of healthy nearby tissues. The former causes a failure of treatment while the latter results in adverse side effects, such as ulceration, incontinence and chronic pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent cancer imaging tool, but due to high magnetic field and lack of access to the patient, it has not been possible to use MRI for guiding gynecological interventions. We propose to develop the proof of concept prototype of a robotic device to allow for precise implantation of brachytherapy sources into gynecological cancers with direct MRI image guidance. We believe that this system, when fully implemented, will lead to better clinical outcomes by simultaneously improving cancer control and reducing radiation toxicity in surrounding healthy tissues. The visitor, Dr. Fichtinger, is an international leader in medical robotics applied for brachytherapy of genitourinary cancers. The host team at MUW has a stellar international standing in clinical gynecological brachytherapy, but they have no expertise in medical robotics. The combination of the host and visitor will create an ideal situation for this project. Dr. Fichtinger will spearhead the project under the Marie Curie Action. At the end of the project year, he will transfer the leadership to the host team that will continue the project toward clinical utilization.